The City is getting ready to launch the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in style, with a 10 hour-long ‘Cape Town Welcomes the World Party’ on the eve of the official kick-off. Local residents and visitors are invited to the party, which is expected to attract 25 000 people.The main attraction at the party, which will be held on Thursday 10 June, is a concert featuring an exciting line-up of mostly local artistes. It starts at 14:00, and at 18:30 flaming torches will light a cauldron on the City Hall balcony - from which Nelson Mandela made his first speech after his release - to signal the start of the carnival parade.
At 19:00, the Rainbow Parade featuring 2 000 Cape Minstrels will move through the city centre.
The party will also include the switch-on of eight colourful soccer streetlight displays in Adderley Street. About 10 km of rope lights were used to create the displays. These use 55% less energy than traditional light bulbs.
The party will also include the switch-on of eight colourful soccer streetlight displays in Adderley Street. About 10 km of rope lights were used to create the displays. These use 55% less energy than traditional light bulbs.
Law enforcement officials will be out in full force, and trains will run until 01:00. Bus services - including the City's newly-launched MyCiTi service - will also be operational. Food and art stalls as well as toilet facilities will be available.